CORRIEDALE SHEEP Meaning and
Definition
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Corriedale sheep are a breed of domesticated sheep that are known for their dual-purpose characteristics, as they are raised for both meat and wool production. They were developed in New Zealand during the late 19th century by crossing Lincoln and Leicester rams with Merino ewes. The name "Corriedale" is derived from "Corriedale Estate," where the breed was first developed.
In appearance, Corriedale sheep are medium to large-sized animals with a well-balanced body structure. They have a broad head, medium-sized ears, and a straight face. The fleece of a Corriedale is dense, soft, and uniform, making it suitable for various textile applications. The wool has a staple length of around 3 to 6 inches and a medium wool diameter, ensuring its strength and versatility. The fiber is often sought after for its spinning and felting properties. Additionally, Corriedales are known for their good carcass quality, providing a desirable meat yield.
Corriedale sheep are adaptable to a wide range of climates and environmental conditions, making them popular in many countries for commercial farming purposes. They are known for their docile temperament, ease of handling, and ability to produce quality wool and meat simultaneously. Furthermore, these sheep have reproductive efficiency, with the ewes displaying good maternal instincts and high fertility rates.
Overall, Corriedale sheep are a versatile breed that combines wool and meat production. They offer farmers a practical and profitable solution, providing a balance between wool quality and carcass yield.
Etymology of CORRIEDALE SHEEP
The word "Corriedale" is derived from a combination of two words: "Corrie" and "Dale".
"Corrie" refers to a Scottish term for a small, rounded hollow in the side of a mountain or hill. It is often formed by glacial erosion. This term originated from the Scottish Gaelic word "coire", meaning "cauldron".
"Dale", on the other hand, is an English word derived from Old English, meaning a valley or a broad, flat area of land between hills or mountains.
Therefore, the word "Corriedale" combines the idea of a rounded hollow in the mountains (corrie) with a valley or broad area of land (dale), likely referring to the environment in which these sheep were originally found.
